There are a few ways to tell if you or someone you love may have a gambling addiction. Some common symptoms to watch out for include:
Not attending work or school and gambling instead
Missing important events like birthdays because of gambling
Losing money, incurring debt, or running into other financial trouble
Being unable to get your mind off gambling
Spending money meant for bills, groceries, or other necessities
Lying to friends or loved ones about how often you gamble or how much you spend gambling
Stealing or attempting to steal money or things to sell for money
Some people's gambling will evolve into a disorder, identified when a person gambles compulsively, even though it's causing significant disruption to their livelihood.
According to the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), a diagnosis of gambling disorder requires at least four (4) of the following in a 12-month period:
Needing to gamble with more money in order to achieve the desired excitement.
Is anxious or irritable when they try to cut back or stop gambling.
Has made several failed efforts to manage, reduce, or quit gambling.
Is often focused solely on gambling (e.g., having persistent thought of previous gambling experiences or thinking about future plans to gamble).
Regularly gambles when feeling anxious or depressed.
After a gambling loss, returns in an effort to break even.
Lies to others to hide gambling involvement.
Has risked or lost important relationships, jobs, or other opportunities because of gambling.
Borrows money for bills and other expenses after a gambling loss.
If you've tried to cut back on your gambling but haven't had much success, consider seeking professional help from a therapist who specializes in treating gambling disorders.